Acne Scars Pictures - What do acne scars look like?
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Acne Scars and Why They Happen
No one enjoys their acne breakouts and unfortunately these breakouts affect millions of people of all ages worldwide. What many find to be more troublesome than the acne itself are the acne scars that are left behind even after the breakout has cleared up. Acne scars develop in place of previous blemishes and/or lesions. In many cases acne scars appear even when there was no evidence of picking or irritation of the acne lesion.
One thing to keep in mind in regards to acne and the tedious scars left behind is the understanding of the different types of acne which will lead to changed levels of scarring: acne pimples (lesions) generally occur when the pores on the skin have become clogged with a collaboration of dead skin cells, oils, etc. This plugged follicle creates an ideal space to grow the infected pus-filled red bumps commonly referred to as pimples.
Different Forms or Stages of Acne
- Acne
- Moderate Acne
- Severe Acne
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Problematic skin & acne scars |
Pimple and acne scars |
Acne Scars and Their Appearance
Individuals with darker skin tones may have more darkened scars, while those with lighter skin tones may notice more redness within their acne scars. Acne scarring can come in three different varieties which depict the possible appearance:
- Boxcar-shaped
- Atrophic (shallow)
- Ice Pick-shaped (deep and narrow)
Please see the photos below to help visualize the different types of acne scars that can appear.
Avoid: Sun Exposure & Picking
Avoiding sun exposure as much as possible in order to decrease the worsening of a scar’s appearance is extremely important. Sun exposure can cause acne scars to become darker in appearance and can also slow the healing process. Scars are generally made mostly of collagen and are formed in a way that indicates the body is repairing itself.
When inflammation occurs, often by injury to the skin often seen with picking and squeezing of the initial acne breakout, it results in an indentation. Squeezing can cause the pus and buildup to retreat deep into the skin which results in an increased amount of collagen damage, leading to worsened scarring.
How to Identify Acne Scars by Appearance
Acne scars look and behave differently from active breakouts. While active acne has visible whiteheads, blackheads and inflamed spots, acne scars remain after the blemishes have healed. They may feel flat or indented, lighter or darker than the surrounding skin and can give the skin an uneven texture. The images on this page are designed to help you recognise the most common types of acne scarring.
Color Changes vs. True Scars
- Dark marks (post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation): These are flat brown or dark spots left after a pimple heals. They are more common in medium to darker skin tones. They are not true scars but can take months to fade.
- Red or pink marks (post-inflammatory erythema): In lighter skin tones, healed blemishes often leave flat red, pink or purplish marks. These can be more noticeable after exercise or heat.
Both of these types of marks are often called “scars” but technically they are changes in color rather than changes in skin texture. True acne scars change the surface of the skin.
Atrophic (Indented) Acne Scars
Atrophic scars are the most common type of acne scar. They sit below the surface of the surrounding skin, giving the skin a pitted or uneven look.
- Ice pick scars: These are small, deep and narrow scars that look like tiny holes or punctures in the skin. They can resemble marks left by a sharp object and are often seen on the cheeks.
- Boxcar scars: These scars are wider with more defined edges. They can look like round or oval “craters” in the skin with steep sides and a flat base, often appearing on the cheeks and temples.
- Shallow atrophic scars: These are softer-looking depressions with sloping edges. They may be less noticeable than ice pick or boxcar scars but still give the skin an uneven texture, especially in bright light or from certain angles.
Raised Acne Scars
Some acne scars rise above the surface of the skin instead of sinking in.
- Hypertrophic scars: These are firm, raised scars that stay within the borders of the original blemish. They are often seen on the chest, back, shoulders or jawline.
- Keloid scars: Keloids are thicker, more prominent raised scars that can grow beyond the edges of the original spot. They may feel firm, rubbery or itchy and are more common in darker skin tones.
Where Acne Scars Commonly Appear
Acne scars can appear anywhere that breakouts have occurred regularly, including:
- Cheeks: A common place for indented (atrophic) scars and visible marks.
- Forehead and temples: Can show small pits or boxcar-type scars.
- Jawline and lower face: Often affected by adult acne, leading to both marks and scars.
- Back, shoulders and chest: More prone to raised scars such as hypertrophic or keloid scars.
If your skin looks similar to the images on this page – with flat dark or red marks, small pits or raised, firm areas where pimples used to be – you may be dealing with acne scarring rather than active acne alone.
Also read:
Acne Spots Happen This Is How You Handle Them
Teenage Acne
Adult Acne
Supporting Bacne and Other Forms of Body Acne
Using H-Scars for Acne Scars
H-scars from Healing Natural Oils is a gentle, homeopathic topical formula designed to be applied to areas of skin affected by scars, including acne scars. Many people choose H-scars as part of a natural approach to improving the appearance of old and new scars and supporting a more even-looking skin tone.
For best results:
- Wait until active breakouts have mostly calmed before focusing on scars.
- Cleanse the skin gently with a mild, non-drying cleanser and pat dry.
- Apply H-scars as directed on the product label to the scarred areas.
- Avoid picking, squeezing or scratching the skin, as this can create new scars.
- Use daily sun protection, as UV exposure can make scars and dark marks more noticeable.
If you have very severe scarring, raised scars that feel uncomfortable, or scars causing significant distress, consider speaking with a dermatologist to discuss all your options. H-scars can be used alongside a general skincare routine and other advice given by your healthcare provider.
Acne Scars before & After Pics
Frequently Asked Questions About Acne Scars
What is the difference between acne scars and dark marks?
Dark marks (or red marks) left after acne heals are usually changes in pigment rather than true scars. They are flat when you run your fingers over them. True acne scars change the texture of the skin – they may feel indented, bumpy, raised or uneven. Both can be reminders of past breakouts, but they behave differently and may respond to different types of care.
Do acne scars fade on their own?
Some shallow scars and many dark or red marks can gradually fade over time, especially with good skincare, sun protection and patience. However, deeper indented scars and raised scars may not fade completely without specific care. Gentle, regular use of products that support skin health, such as H-scars, along with protecting the skin from the sun, can help improve the overall appearance.
How long does it take for acne scars to improve?
Acne scars take much longer to improve than active breakouts. Changes usually happen slowly over months rather than days or weeks. How long it takes depends on the type of scars, your skin type and how consistently you care for your skin. Many people see gradual improvement with a steady routine, but deeper scars may take longer to soften in appearance.
Can new acne scars appear even if I don’t pick my pimples?
Yes, some people develop scars even when they do their best not to touch their skin. This can be due to very inflamed breakouts, genetics or how their skin heals. However, picking, squeezing or popping spots definitely increases the risk of deeper and more noticeable scarring, so avoiding this is still one of the most important steps for prevention.
Does the sun make acne scars worse?
Yes. Sun exposure can make scars and dark marks appear darker and more obvious. UV rays can also slow the natural fading process of scars. Using daily sun protection (such as a broad-spectrum sunscreen, hat or shade) on scarred areas is an important part of caring for acne scars.
Can H-scars be used on old acne scars?
H-scars is designed to be used on both newer and older scars. While older scars may take longer to show visible change, many people use the formula to help soften the appearance of established scars and to support the look of smoother, more even skin over time. Always follow the directions on the product label.
Is it safe to use H-scars on sensitive skin?
H-scars is a gentle, natural, homeopathic formula. However, everyone’s skin is different. If you have very sensitive skin, it is a good idea to perform a small patch test first: apply a tiny amount to one area and wait 24 hours to see how your skin responds. If you notice irritation, redness or discomfort, discontinue use and consult a healthcare provider.
Can I use H-scars while I still get occasional breakouts?
Yes, but it is best to avoid applying H-scars directly onto open, broken or very inflamed acne lesions. Focus on areas where the blemishes have already healed and left marks or scars behind. Continue to follow a gentle routine for active breakouts and use H-scars to support the appearance of the post-acne marks and scars.
What else can I do at home to help prevent new scars?
To help prevent new acne scars from forming, try to:
- Avoid picking, squeezing or scratching pimples.
- Use gentle skincare – no harsh scrubs or aggressive rubbing.
- Treat active breakouts early with appropriate products or advice from a healthcare provider.
- Protect your skin from the sun every day.
- Keep your hands, phone and pillowcases clean to reduce irritation.
Combining these habits with the regular use of H-scars can help support smoother, more even-looking skin and reduce the visible reminders of past breakouts.
Have unwanted acne scars? Read more about our acne product-H-Acne or our scar removal product.
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